Traditional kitchens have a formal, elegant look characteristic of American and European homes of the 18th, 19th and early 20th centuries. Expect to see:

Crown and rope molding, fluting, corbels and other ornamentation and trim

Cabinets in cherry, walnut and mahogany

Raised panel cabinet door styles

Antique fixtures and appliances

Wood, stone or other natural materials

Victorian: Elegance is the catchword when it comes to Victorian kitchens. Cathedral arch doors and raised panels come into play, accented by ornate molding and trim. Dark and heavy woods are best when it comes to the cabinets.

Georgian: Formal is the catchword when designing a Georgian kitchen. Look to woods like cherry, walnut and mahogany for your cabinets. Square panel raised doors are typical, as are heavy crown molding and stacked cabinetry that reaches the ceiling. Black accents (such as a painted black island) are not uncommon.